Mangroves – Coastal Wetlands Near Perupalem Face Growing Encroachment Pressure

Mangroves – Environmental concerns are increasing along the Perupalem coast in West Godavari district as activists raise objections over the alleged conversion of mangrove forest land into aqua ponds. Local environmental groups claim that ecologically fragile coastal stretches are being rapidly altered, putting sensitive wetlands and creek systems at risk.

Delayed Action Raises Questions

Environmental activists say several complaints were submitted to authorities over the past few months, urging immediate intervention to stop further encroachments. Although officials from the Revenue, Forest and Irrigation departments were expected to conduct a joint inspection in the affected coastal belt, campaigners allege that no meaningful action has taken place on the ground.

Members of the Coastal Environment Protection Committee have questioned the absence of updated land assessments and clear records regarding the original extent of mangrove forests. Concerns have also been raised about permissions granted for aqua ponds and the gradual reduction of creek boundaries over the years.

Allegations Over Expansion of Aqua Ponds

According to activists, land near Perupalem beach that had earlier been leased for tourism-related development later became vulnerable to illegal occupation. The committee alleges that nearby mangrove and creek areas were gradually taken over, eventually leading to large-scale aqua pond construction.

Environmental representatives claim that around 70 acres of coastal land have already been converted into aquaculture ponds with the support of earlier encroachers. They argue that the unchecked expansion of aqua cultivation is damaging natural barriers that protect the coastline from erosion and tidal disturbances.

Tirumani Srinivasa Rao, representing the Coastal Environment Protection Committee, said repeated appeals were made to the government seeking urgent measures to preserve the remaining mangrove cover. He warned that the matter could be escalated to the National Green Tribunal if authorities fail to respond effectively.

Mangrove Cover Shrinking Over Decades

Officials familiar with historical records stated that mangrove forests once covered nearly 2,000 acres across the Narasapuram and Mogalturu coastal regions during the 1950s. However, government records now indicate that only limited stretches remain in several villages.

At present, official estimates suggest that around 245 acres survive in Narasapuram, while nearly 265 acres remain across Muthyalapalli and Perupalem villages. Environmental groups fear that even these surviving patches are under severe pressure because of increasing commercial activity and unregulated aquaculture operations.

Activists believe the disappearance of mangroves could have long-term environmental consequences, including coastal erosion, biodiversity loss, and greater vulnerability during cyclones and tidal surges.

Scientific Survey Planned by Authorities

Forest officials said a comprehensive survey would soon be conducted to determine the actual extent of mangrove cover and identify encroachments accurately. The proposed exercise is expected to involve GPS mapping, satellite-based analysis, and Coastal Regulation Zone guidelines.

A Forest Range Officer stated that only after completing the scientific assessment would the department be able to prepare a detailed report on illegal occupation and environmental damage in the district. The officer also acknowledged allegations that influential individuals were involved in converting protected coastal stretches into aqua ponds.

According to environmental norms, aquaculture activities are not supposed to operate within a restricted distance of mangrove ecosystems. However, officials admitted that violations have been detected in several coastal pockets and that the issue is now under review by the State government.

Government Departments to Coordinate Protection Efforts

Revenue Divisional Officer Dasiraju said multiple government departments would work together to protect the remaining mangrove areas and review complaints related to encroachments. Authorities are expected to examine historical land records, CRZ limits, and current land use patterns before taking further action.

Environmental groups, meanwhile, continue to demand stricter monitoring and long-term conservation measures to prevent further degradation of the fragile coastal ecosystem near Perupalem.